Italy is not a place for a rushed, weekend visit. Or a quick stopover on the way to somewhere else. It’s a place to slow down from your normal hectic life – a place for good food and wine, incredible art, and plenty of relaxation.
You could spend a lifetime exploring Italy’s delights, but if you don’t have that much time, we suggest our 14-day dream Italian getaway. This carefully curated itinerary gives you two full weeks to revel in the food and culture of some of Italy’s tops destinations, including luxurious Lake Como and foodie heaven Tuscany.
Here’s what our slow-down-and-savor Italy 14-day retreat includes:
A Roman Holiday
You’ll start your tour of Italy in historic Rome. A private driver will take you to your 4-star hotel in the city center, where you can rest up before a full day of exploring the Eternal City. In the morning, a private guide will take you to the top sites, including:
- The Pantheon
- Trevi Fountain
- The Spanish Steps
Don’t see your preferred site on our list? No problem – this trip is 100% customizable and we can arrange for your driver to take you where you want to go.
On your second day in Rome, you’ll visit the autonomous city-state, Vatican City, and enter the Sistine Chapel. Gaze at Michelangelo’s incomparable work on the Sistine Chapel’s ceiling, as well as the countless pieces of priceless art and iconography that adorn Saint Peter’s Basilica.
Off to Tuscany
Next, enjoy private transportation from Rome north to Tuscany. This region in central Italy includes the cities of Florence and Siena and is world-renowned for its culinary traditions.
Relax in your luxurious lodging (we’ll set you up in a “castello” – a Tuscan castle) before the next day exploring the countryside. You’ll visit a medieval city, enjoy a long lunch in the old town, and stop at a winery for a tasting of some of the region’s best vintages.
Florence is a must-visit in Tuscany, so we’ll get you to your lodging in the historic city center via private transportation. From there, immerse yourself in the history and romance of the Medicis, da Vinci, Raphael, Donatello, and more.
Climb the tower of the stately Duomo for a view of the city and surrounding countryside. Don’t forget to linger over an espresso or gelato as you explore Florence’s rich art scene. You’ll spend 3.5 days total in Florence, giving you plenty of time for guided visits to all the must-sees, as well as leisure time for strolling the old town and exploring at your own pace.
Luxuriate at Lake Como
After Tuscany, it’s time for a luxurious lakeside retreat. You’ll stay waterfront on Lake Como, which was made famous as George Clooney’s preferred Italian hideaway. Cruise on a private boat to visit the village of Bellagio, charmingly perched at the point where the lake makes its “Y” shaped split. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, sipping Italian wines and enjoying the classic Italian views.
Explore the Canals of Venice
The last stop of our 14-day dream Italian getaway is legendary Venice. You’ll once again stay in luxury waterfront accommodations, and enjoy a private gondola ride through the city’s romantic canals.
You’ll also have time to visit a museum or two of your choice (we recommend the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, located at the American socialite’s former Venetian villa), to wander the Piazza San Marco, take photos of the Rialto Bridge, or simply wander the small shops that line the streets as you hunt for local art.
The Best Way to Experience Italy
The best way to experience Italy is by giving yourself enough time to slow down and enjoy everything the country has to offer to the discerning traveler – and by leaving the stressful trip planning to us. Take our 14-day getaway on its own, or include it in a larger escape to one of our other European destinations. Start planning your la dolce vita Italian experience today.
